FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

MAP UPDATES

Map updates are done with genuine BMW software and requires a VIN based activation FSC code.

Latest Maps + FSC CODE + Instructions included in purchase.

Why System Map Updates are Important?

Roads change fast. So do we.

From closures to new streets, road networks change fast–as much as 40 percent a year, in fact. That’s why BMW continuously updates its map data, using a network of more than 50,000 authoritative sources and real-world, real-time feedback from the world’s largest connected navigation community to ensure that its on-board navigation system is the most powerful and accurate on the road.

BMW System Map Updates bring drivers more roads, addresses and Points of Interest. By updating your system often, you’ll always know the road ahead. BMW System Map Updates place the most reliable data at your fingertips, getting you from Point A to Point B faster, safer and more easily.

BMW System Map Updates help you navigate the road ahead with these features:

300,000 new Points of Interest added each year

142,000 miles of new roads–7.3 million miles total

Improve the performance of your BMW iDrive system with regular map updates. BMW recommends that you update your maps twice a year, or at least annually. You can purchase new system map updates at http://bimmermaps.com

How often should I update my map?

BMW recommends owners update their maps every six months or annually, at least.

What is Real-Time Traffic Information? (Not available on all models, not available in Canada)

What is Traffic Information Service?

In highly populated areas, the BMW iDrive system can display real-time traffic information transmitted from radio stations.

What is a POI?

POI stands for “Points of Interest.” A Navigation feature, POIs include restaurants, gas stations, airports, hotels, shopping malls, tourist attractions and more. Thousands are pre-loaded into the BMW On-Board Navigation system, so that you not only get to your destination safely, but have a great time along the way.

What is FSC code?

FSC(Freischaltcode) is 20 digital activation code released by BMW

Each code is specially based on your VIN# for each single car

Code can not use with multiple cars

What You Need for Map Data Update?

You need 3 things to update your maps data:

USB drive or DVD +r

Maps Data

FSC Code

What Info We Need From You?

We only need your Last 7 Digital VIN#

Please provide your VIN# in Order Note

Otherwise I need retrofitted system VIN# If your navigation system is replacement unit

Update process starts with Car’s system request to enter 20 digit Activation code (FSC/Freischaltcode). This code is generated to each car individually, based on VIN# and map release.

How long time does Update progress takes?

Usually Map update process takes 30 to 60 minutes

Where is the USB interface port in my vehicle?

The USB interface port required for the map update can be found in the glove compartment. Should there be no USB interface port in the glove compartment, please use the USB interface port in the center console or in the storage compartment in the center armrest.

What is a FSC Code?

FSC(Freischaltcode) is 20 digital activation code released by BMW

Each code is specially based on your VIN# for each single car

Code can not use with multiple cars

Remote Coding

How does coding work?

Coding is a fairly simple process. The coding is quick, efficient, and painless.

Bimmer Coders uses 100% factory BMW tools to accomplish the coding. You can expect full functionality without any compromise whatsoever. Coding requires absolutely no physical modification to your vehicle, the features are accomplished via software coding only. No changes will result in any error/warning lights, sounds, or messages.

Will coding void my warranty or cause any issues at the dealership?

Absolutely not. Being that we use 100% factory tools to perform the coding – to the dealer it looks as if your car left the factory floor already equipped. The dealer can interact with your vehicle as if it were a stock car. All of the features we activate are factory options that did not come enabled. There is absolutely no risk involved.

How long will the remote coding take?

The initial set up of the coding machine will take about 10 – 15 minutes. Once we are connected to your vehicle coding time varies depending on the options that are selected. For few options, the coding will take about twenty minutes. If you have a slew of options, the maximum you should expect the coding to take is roughly 45 minutes. From start to finish you are looking at roughly an hour maximum – not bad!

What if I’m not sure about some options?

Feel free to use the Contact Us page for further clarification. If you are unsure about certain options, we can enable them for you to see if you like it. Chances are that you will want it. If not, we can put it back the way it was. All of the coding we perform is 100% reversible and makes no permanent change to your vehicle. We offer FREE RECODING.